International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) is observed on 13 June to celebrate the human rights of persons with albinism across the world.
The theme for 2020 International Albinism Awareness Day is “Made To Shine.” The theme has been selected to celebrate the achievements and successes of persons with albinism worldwide. Bullying, Killings, attacks, dehumanizing stigma, and discrimination continue against people with albinism.
In the mid-2000s, there occurred a rising number of violent attacks on and murders of persons with albinism in Tanzania.
Persons with albinism were accused to attribute magical powers. Such persons were used for lucky charms and occult rituals. By the year 2015, perpetrators killed over 70 victims and many were more.
In response to this, the Tanzania Albinism Society (TAS) and other NGOs began campaigning for the human rights of persons with albinism.
On 4 May 2006, TAS celebrated the first Albino Day. From the year 2009, the day became National Albino Day and was eventually called National Albinism Day.
In December 2014, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution 69/170 and designated the observation of IAAD with effect from 13 June 2015.